7 Warning Signs of Low Testosterone (2 Supplements That May Help)
Testosterone is one of the major sex hormones which are usually secreted in males and observational studies have now concluded that levels begin to drop with advancing age.
If you are male past your fourth decade of life and have begun to experience symptoms such as increasing fatigue, lower sex drive or have begun to feel depressed then your physician will in all probability advise you to get your testosterone levels tested.
The Physiology
Testosterone is the predominant male hormone which ensures growth of hair on the chest and powers the sex drive. During pubertal years the hormone is known to increase muscle mass and deepen the voice.
On the contrary as a young male you would experience a robust sex drive and will enjoy a healthy muscle mass which is best attributed to high testosterone levels.
Warning Signs of Low Testosterone Levels
Low testosterone levels are best identified by the presence of some or more of these warning signs:
Loss of Hair
Although balding is a normal process of aging, loss of hair on the body and the face is usually attributed to low testosterone levels and is invariably one of the earlier symptoms that one would experience.
Low Muscle Mass
If testosterone levels drop, there can be a significant drop in muscle mass. This may happen especially in the region of the legs, arms and the chest. While one may attempt to rebuild the muscle mass by extensive resistance training, original mass is seldom achieved.
Low Energy Levels
If you have been experiencing a drop in energy levels and tend to get exhausted far more quickly than before, it may be due to a drop in testosterone levels. One of the typical signs is that you find it increasingly difficult to workout.
Low Bone Mass
Significant weakening of bones or ‘osteoporosis’, is a common symptom when testosterone levels begin to drop. Contrary to popular belief osteoporosis does not happen only in women.
Mood Swings
If you are a male past your 40s and have begun to experience mood swings associated with irritability, depression and an inability to focus on the task at hand, you may be suffering from low testosterone levels.
Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile Dysfunction is far common than one would believe. This is one condition which is usually an outcome of low testosterone levels in men. It is indeed encouraging that administration of testosterone has led to a reversal of these symptoms. There are alternative treatments to TRT, or Testosterone Replacement Therapy, as we’ll discuss below.
Low Sex Drive
Medical literature indicates that the sexual drive in men peaks at the age of 18 and then gradually declines over the next few decades.
What Can You Do to Boost Testosterone?
While falling testosterone levels are physiological and can be treated with testosterone injections, opting for natural ways through nutrition and lifestyle changes can be a safer, better alternative.
Foods high in Vitamin D and Zinc were found to have a substantial effect on testosterone, especially when combined with exercise.
Some foods you may want to consider adding to your diet are beans, shellfish, oysters, cereals fortified with Vitamin D. Consider limiting red meat as much as possible. Instead opt for leaner meats like chicken and turkey.
Also exercise is key for regulating your hormones and keeping your body running like the perfect engine it should be.
Vitamin D: 1,000 IUs
Vitamin D: 2,000 IUs
Vitamin D: 5,000 IUs
Zinc